3D PRINTED SKIN

The 3D printed skin refers to a component of the 'Simulated Anatomy' research project. The clinicians involved in this research identified early on a desire for 3D printed models that behave like human skin for practicing basic skills such as suturing. One of the main challenges faced in using multi-material printing was overcoming some of the material properties, including the material being too difficult to grip, and not having the same movement as human skin.

By creating an excess of material of material at the borders of the print that would allow for the correct amount of movement, and by applying a texture to the surface of the model, a print that behaved like human skin was achieved.